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6. Jens Pulver vs. B.J. Penn
UFC 35
Jan. 11, 2002 | Uncasville, Connecticut
What was supposed to be a coronation for Penn turned into affirmation for Pulver, as “Lil’ Evil” retained his lightweight championship with a majority decision over the favored Hawaiian in the UFC 35 main event at the Mohegan Sun Arena. Judges Douglas Crosby and Tony Mullinax cast 48-45 and 48-47 scorecards for Pulver, while Jeff Mullen scored it a 47-47 draw. Penn had won his first three fights under the UFC banner -- Joey Gilbert, Din Thomas and Caol Uno were the victims -- in less than eight minutes combined and appeared to have the upper hand against the champion early on, nearly submitting him with an armbar at the end of the second round. However, Pulver’s indomitable will slowly took over, as held his own with Penn in both the standup and grappling exchanges in the later rounds. While the decision remains somewhat controversial to this day, no one can discount Pulver’s efforts in what became his signature victory.

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